Why You’ll Love Rooftop Tents
Thinking about roof top tents? They’ve got some killer perks that’ll make your camping trips a whole lot easier and more fun.
Speedy Setup and Hassle-Free Camping
Rooftop tents are all about keeping things simple. The Traveling Beard mentions how these tents pop up in just minutes. Just unfold, and you’re good to go. No fighting with a jumble of poles and stakes. This means you spend less time on setup and more on the stuff you love—hiking, grilling, or just chilling by the campfire.
Safe and Snug
Camping on the roof of your car? Yep, it’s pretty genius. Being up off the ground means fewer issues with creepy crawlies or waking up in a puddle. You’re up high, safe, and sound. And let’s admit it, there’s something cool about sleeping in a tent on your car.
Plus, rooftop tents are way comfier than you’d think. The Traveling Beard notes that they keep you warmer at night. They offer better insulation, so no need to pack a winter sleeping bag just in case it’s chilly. You’ll sleep like a baby.
So, whether you’re escaping for a weekend or diving into a longer backcountry trip, rooftop tents have got your back. Quick set-up, top-notch safety, and cozy vibes make them a win for any camper. Get ready to up your camping game.
Things to Think About with Rooftop Tents
Getting ready for your next adventure with a rooftop tent? There are some important things to keep in mind before choosing the best one for your vehicle. Two major factors are how it affects your gas mileage and whether it’s a good fit for your car.
Gas Mileage
Adding a rooftop tent can mess with your car’s gas mileage. As The Traveling Beard points out, you might see a 7-9% dip in fuel efficiency. This happens because of the extra weight and the drag it creates while you’re driving.
But don’t worry—there are ways to cut down on gas-guzzling. A wind deflector can help reduce drag and make your car more aerodynamic. Also, changing how you drive—like keeping a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration—can save you some miles per gallon. Just remember this when you’re planning your trips with a rooftop tent.
Fit with Your Vehicle
Many folks think rooftop tents are just for big vehicles, but that’s not the case. They can fit a variety of cars, even smaller ones, without putting too much stress on them. Plenty of roof racks are made to handle the weight of these tents, giving you lots of options.
Before you buy, make sure your car and the tent are compatible. Check the weight limits for both the tent and your vehicle. Follow the guidelines from both the tent and car manufacturers to make sure everything is secure and safe.
By keeping an eye on gas mileage and compatibility, you’ll be in a good spot to pick the right rooftop tent for your needs. Whether you’re heading out alone or taking the family along, these tips will help you find a tent that fits your plans and your ride.
Camping in Style: Rent a Rooftop Tent
Looking to turn your next camping trip into an epic adventure? Renting a rooftop tent could be your ticket to a fuss-free, elevated camping experience. Let’s sift through the options to find what best suits you.
Tent Models and Prices
We’ve teamed up with the Rooftop Adventure Company to offer a choice of 5 rooftop tent models. Here’s the lowdown on what you can rent and the daily cost:
| Tent Model | Daily Rate |
|---|---|
| Guana Equipment Kamuk | $75 |
| Smittybilt Overlander | $85 |
| Thule Autana 3 + Annex | $95 |
| iKamper Mini | $100 |
| iKamper Skycamp 2.0 | $105 |
Source: Northeast Alpine Start
Extra Gear and Services
Beyond just tents, the Rooftop Adventure Company also rents an “Adventure Trailer” for an extra $30 per day. This nifty trailer fits select rooftop tent models, giving you more room for all your gear and making transport a breeze. Basically, it’s a mini-base camp on wheels.
Here’s why this is cool: You set up your tent on the trailer, and still have your car free to zip around without having to take down your campsite. It’s perfect for those who want to explore multiple spots without the hassle of re-packing every time.
Making the Right Choice
Renting a rooftop tent isn’t just about finding a place to crash; it’s about making your camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Think about what you need in a tent, and whether the added flexibility of the trailer makes sense for you. Choose wisely, and get ready for a hassle-free adventure with plenty of stories to tell.
Ready to hit the road? Rent a rooftop tent and make your next camping trip one for the books!
Safety and Regulations
When it comes to rooftop camping, keeping safe and sticking to the rules is a must. This means knowing how to anchor your tent right and getting any permits you might need. Let’s break it down.
Anchoring Methods
Getting your rooftop tent anchored is crucial for its stability, especially when the weather decides to get wild. The go-to method for anchoring a tent? Good old staking. Tent makers swear by it because it’s the safest way to keep your tent from wandering off. You simply drive stakes into the ground to hold everything in place.
But what if you’re setting up on concrete or some other hard surface? In that case, you need to weigh your tent down. A frame tent works better than a pole tent in these situations. Many places have rules about how much weight you need per square foot to keep your tent stable. There are also drop-in concrete anchors that work great for setups on solid surfaces and can be your go-to for frequent events in parking lots or other hardscapes.
Permit Requirements
Rules about permits for temporary structures like tents can vary depending on where you are. But trust me, you don’t want to skip this step and deal with the hassle later on. For example, if you’re in Indianapolis, you need a permit for any tent over 3,200 square feet. Meanwhile, in Lawrence, you need one no matter the size, even for a backyard birthday bash.
And it’s not just about the size. Some places have even more specific safety requirements. In Indiana, for example, tents over 400 square feet need to follow Chapter 31 of the State Code, which includes fire safety measures like extinguishers, no smoking signs, and exit signs. Following these rules isn’t just about staying legal—it’s about keeping everyone safe.
By nailing down your anchoring methods and ticking off those permit boxes, you’ll be all set for a worry-free rooftop camping adventure.